Looking for a country escape from Sydney this spring? Just 25 minutes south of Bowral, Bundanoon is a charming Southern Highlands town known for its heritage character, lush surrounds and deep sandstone gullies. Better still, it has a secret natural wonder hidden in the national park that only reveals itself after dark.
Affectionately known as the “town of deep gullies”, Bundanoon offers a quieter alternative to the Southern Highlands’ more popular destinations. With its village charm, easy access to nature and relaxed pace, it’s the sort of place that rewards taking your time.
Why choose Bundanoon for a spring day trip?
While Bowral attracts plenty of visitors during spring, Bundanoon offers the same fresh country air and beautiful Highlands scenery without quite the same bustle or weekend crowds. The village is surrounded by Morton National Park, putting bushland, sandstone escarpments and peaceful walking trails within easy reach.
There’s also no better time to visit than spring, when the Southern Highlands comes alive with colourful blooms and fresh green landscapes. If Bowral’s famous tulips feel a little too busy, Bundanoon offers a quieter country escape with plenty of seasonal charm of its own.
Things to Do and See in Bundanoon
Start your spring day trip in Morton National Park, which surrounds Bundanoon with sandstone cliffs, dense bushland, waterfalls and dramatic escarpment views. There are plenty of walking and cycling trails to explore, while the Grand Canyon lookout is worth seeking out for sweeping Southern Highlands views.
For an easy nature escape, continue to Fairy Bower Falls. The roughly one-hour loop leads through lush bushland to a peaceful cascade, which is particularly impressive after rainfall.
After exploring the national park, head back into Bundanoon village and take a slower wander through its charming 1930s streets. The historic Soldiers’ Memorial Hall is a local landmark and regularly hosts Makers Markets featuring handmade goods, art and local produce.
Then, as the sun sets, Bundanoon reveals its most enchanting secret: Glow Worm Glen. Hidden deep inside Morton National Park, the glen sits at the bottom of a steep, fern-filled gully. The walk from the end of William Street takes around 20 minutes, and once darkness settles in, thousands of tiny bioluminescent larvae begin to glow across the damp sandstone walls.
The species, Arachnocampa richardsae, is unique to the region, making the natural light show even more special. Spring is an ideal time to visit, giving you plenty of daylight to explore the town before heading down around sunset.
Just remember to keep the glen dark and quiet. Turn off your torch at the viewing platform, avoid flash photography and use a red-light torch if needed. The walk back is steep and stair-heavy, so sturdy enclosed shoes are essential.
Where to dine in Bundanoon
When it’s time to refuel, Bottega B Ristorante is the spot for a relaxed Italian meal in the village. Tucked along Railway Avenue, it serves comforting pasta and hearty European fare, making it a cosy place to settle in after a day exploring the Southern Highlands.
For something a little more indulgent, head to Fire Kitchen at Osborn House, where Latin American-inspired dishes are cooked over an open flame. Visitors can rip into Argentinian-style grilled meats, smoky flavours and a terrace overlooking the surrounding wilderness, with weekend Fire Feast lunches making it worth ordering.
Getting there
Bundanoon is an easy two-hour journey from Sydney by car, making it ideal for a spring day trip or overnight getaway.
Trains run from Sydney Central to Bundanoon Station on the Southern Highlands Line, with the journey taking around two hours. Some services require a change at Campbelltown, so check the latest timetable before you go.
